Georgia’s Lake Country, encompassing Lake Oconee and Lake Sinclair, is a renowned fishing destination catering to both experienced anglers and casual hobbyists. The two main lakes, along with the surrounding rivers, boast a diverse fishery teeming with various species. So, grab your rod and reel, cast a line, and experience the thrill of fishing in this beautiful part of Georgia!

Here’s a glimpse of what fishing in Georgia’s Lake Country offers:

Species

Largemouth bass: The most sought-after fish, thriving in both lakes and offering year-round fishing opportunities.

Crappie: Another popular species, abundant in both lakes and known for their schooling behavior.

Blue catfish: Widely available throughout the lakes and rivers, providing excellent year-round fishing.

Bream: These panfish offer light tackle fun and are perfect for a relaxing fishing trip.

Boat Ramps

Lake Oconee

Long Shoals Boat Ramp (115 River Lake Circle, Eatonton, GA 31024)

A Georgia Power-maintained boat ramp and dock, Long Shoals also offers ample space for fishing from the banks or docks on the sparkling waters of Lake Oconee. A minimal parking fee does apply to those interested in using the space.

Old Salem Campground (1530 Old Salem Rd, Greensboro, GA) 

Disconnect from your phone and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature at this picturesque, all-inclusive campground and boat ramp. Old Salem’s primitive campsites offer a serene escape, surrounded by breathtaking scenery and historic communities waiting to be explored. It’s the ideal destination for families who love the great outdoors, featuring day-use picnic spots, a sandy swimming beach, a playground for the kids, a convenient boat ramp, and a grill and pavilion perfect for hosting events and reunions.

Swords USFS Recreation Area (Blue Springs Road, Buckhead, GA 30625)

Located in the northern area of Lake Oconee, this boat ramp offers the convenience of parking and picnic tables. Fishing from the bank near the boat ramp is also allowed and parking is just $5 per vehicle per day.

Lake Sinclair

Dennis Station DNR (100-120 Bagley Lane, Eatonton, GA 31024)

A popular spot among the fishing tournament set on Lake Sinclair, the Dennis Station Ramp offers a large parking lot with two ramps to launch your boat from on each end with docks from which you can fish as well. The piers are equipped with fish attractor lights to improve night fishing opportunities for anglers and the space is well maintained by the Georgia Department of Natural Resources.

Cosby’s Landing (Carrs Station Road, Eatonton, GA 31024)

Located in a quiet cove on the Island Creek branch of Lake Sinclair, this park has publicly accessible facilities including a boat ramp, fishing pier, handicap access and parking lot.

Fishing Piers

Pier fishing offers several advantages for anglers of all experience levels. Whether you are looking to reach deeper waters where the fish congregate or you are a beginner looking for a stable platform to learn the ropes of fishing, Georgia’s Lake Country offers a variety of spots to access the water without having to step foot on a boat.

Lake Oconee

Hwy. 44 Fishing Pier Public Access Area (1054 Lake Oconee Pkwy, Eatonton, GA 31024)

Highway 44 Fishing Pier is one of the newest fishing piers on Lake Oconee and due to its convenient location, it’s one of the simplest spots to quickly enjoy time spent fishing on the lake.

Wallace Dam Fishing Pier (Wallace Dam Road, Eatonton, GA 31024)

Just south of Wallace Dam, this fishing spot is the best place to fish near the dam on Lake Oconee. This platform is managed by Georgia Power and offers plenty of room for fishermen to pull in plenty of Lake Oconee’s finest catches. 

Lake Sinclair

T.D. Cheek Pier (1099 Milledgeville Rd., Eatonton, GA 31061)

T. D. Cheek Fishing Pier is a great point for reeling in a big one from Lake Sinclair. This Georgia Power-maintained public fishing pier is open year-round. Multiple docks, shoreline fishing access, fish attractors, a parking area, and picnic tables make this an ideal spot for the avid fisherman or a choice location to teach the kids to cast.

Sinclair Dam Pier (Sinclair Dam Road, Milledgeville, GA 31061)

Located near the Sinclair Dam, the Sinclair Dam Pier is the closest public fishing pier to the dam and is also handicap accessible. 

Charter Fishing

Opt for a guided fishing trip with experienced local captains who know the waters well and can help you catch your target species.

Lake Oconee

Lake Oconee Fishing Guides
Hook into a memorable fishing experience on Lake Oconee with Captain Doug Nelms! For over 20 years, Captain Doug has been the go-to guide for anglers seeking trophy catches. Whether you’re chasing Striped and Hybrid Bass, Crappie, or Largemouth Bass, his expertise will put you on the fish. Contact Doug at 706-887-6110 to learn more and secure your spot on the water!

Reel Time Guide Service

Grab your bait and tackle and ride along with Captain Mark Smith, Lake Oconee’s premier full-time guide service and preferred guide of The Ritz Carlton Reynolds. With more than 30 years of experience, Captain Smith is passionate about teaching people how to fish. With his guidance, you’ll be catching stripers, hybrids, and crappie in no time. To set up a reservation, call Captain Mark Smith at 404-803-0741 or email him at [email protected]. 

Oconee On The Fly

Calling all fishing enthusiasts! Oconee On The Fly, one of Lake Oconee’s premier full-time fishing guides, offers unforgettable adventures on the water. Experience the thrill of the catch with fish like hybrids, crappie, and striper under their expert guidance. Ready to cast your line? Call 404-317-9556 to book your outing today.

Know Before You Go

• Fishing licenses: Obtain a valid Georgia fishing license before hitting the water. Licenses can be purchased online or at various retailers.
• Fishing regulations: Familiarize yourself with the fishing regulations specific to Georgia’s Lake Country, including size limits, bag limits, and seasonal restrictions.

With its diverse fishery, stunning scenery, and year-round fishing opportunities, Georgia’s Lake Country is an angler’s paradise. So, grab your rod and reel, cast a line, and experience the thrill of fishing in this beautiful region!